Next Chapter frequently asked questions (FAQ)

If you have a question we have not answered please email us.

Why are consultants and contractors used on projects and how are they chosen?

Projects are complicated and require input from many different experts. The bigger or more complex a project is, the greater the need is for specialists. We try, where appropriate, to use Council staff to manage and oversee projects. Where we need support from consultants and contractors we identify the requirement at the start of a project and build these costs into the request for funding.

We follow procurement rules to ensure that Council expenditure delivers value for money, social value and is statutorily compliant. Where appropriate, we carry out formal tender exercises and suppliers are chosen based on their ability to do the job and provide best value to the Council.

Why are we still spending millions of pounds on road schemes like the A629 programme when we are trying to encourage people to use public transport and reduce car use?

As a Council we are committed to responding to the climate emergency and reaching our target of net zero emissions by 2038. Travel is the second biggest source of carbon emissions. 41% of these emissions come from cars, lorries, buses, and vans using our roads. Transforming transport and getting around is one of the key themes of our climate action plan. We are supporting more people to get to where they need to go without the need for a car.

Roads are, and will continue to be, an important way by which we all get around. Roads are used for public transport, the emergency services, for delivering post and parcels, and for transporting goods. 

The A629 programme includes features like cycle lanes, crossings, and bus lanes that make it easier to switch to walking, cycling or public transport.

Projects that tackle congestion and standing traffic, which are some of the major contributing factors to pollution, can reduce emissions and improve air quality. 

Why is the Council able to remove trees when it has declared a climate emergency?

Any decision to remove trees is a last resort and not something we do lightly. If and when we are required to remove trees, the plans are discussed with ecology experts to minimise disruption for wildlife. We avoid removing trees during bird nesting season and take care not to disrupt bat habitats.  Where we have to remove trees, we offset loss by replanting in the same area or as close by. We demonstrate that biodiversity will be maintained or improved to get project approval.